The 7 main Thai locations "the beach"(2000)

If you claim to have ventured into Thailand without experiencing Danny Boyle's "The Beach" (2000), well... I might find that a tad hard to believe! It almost feels like a rite of passage for Western travelers to immerse themselves in this quintessential solo-backpacker-on-a-soul-searching-trip-to-Thailand cinematic journey. It's no wonder that everyone is eager to explore the filming locales of "The Beach" in Thailand, especially the notorious Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Le.
"The Beach" follows the adventures of American backpacker Richard (Leonardo DiCaprio) as he embarks on a solitary trek through Southeast Asia. Along the way, he encounters a spirited Scotsman who passionately extols the virtues of a secluded, paradisiacal island hidden somewhere off the Thai coast—an island known only to a privileged few. However, once Richard arrives at this island, he discovers that paradise may not be exactly as he envisioned.
While the film may not have garnered universal acclaim (holding a modest 20% on Rotten Tomatoes), those of us enchanted by wanderlust can easily forgive its imperfections. Presented here are the illustrious filming spots of "The Beach" in Thailand, featuring the world-renowned "beach from The Beach," Maya Bay.

1. Khao San Road, Bangkok
The Beach commences with our friend DiCaprio's arrival in the vibrant Land of Smiles. His narration wistfully contemplates the promise of extraordinary escapades and embracing the wild unknown. You know, the usual fare for a gap year traveler. And what better place to envision those 'off the beaten path' exploits than the bustling Khao San Road? It's a street renowned for its lively mix of Westerners, where exuberant youths indulge in vibrant concoctions from buckets and occasionally strike poses with pretend-eaten scorpions for their Instagram feeds.

2. The Memory at On On Hotel, Phuket Town
DiCaprio embarks on a quest for lodging while stationed in Bangkok, which is, in fact, set in Phuket Town. During the filming of The Beach in Thailand, the On On Hotel likely served as a modest hostel or budget-friendly guesthouse. DiCaprio's character would have paid around 250THB per night and would have rested on a utilitarian bed akin to those found in a prison cell, accompanied by a basic squat toilet.

3. Surin Beach, Phuket
After Richard is handed the hand-drawn map, he successfully persuades the French couple, Étienne and Françoise, to accompany him to the clandestine island. Remarkably, this overland journey came at the modest cost of only 400THB. Even by the standards of two decades ago, this seems exceptionally affordable.
The newfound companions embark on a train and boat voyage that leads them to Ko Samui, which is purportedly the largest island in proximity to the secret destination. The film employs a touch of geographical mystique, presenting various islands and locations as being conveniently close to each other in The Beach, even if reality suggests otherwise. Just embrace the cinematic magic.
It's worth noting that the scenes depicting planning and the beach huts were actually filmed on an entirely separate island, Surin Beach in Phuket, rather than on Ko Samui. Additionally, the iconic beach huts don't exist in reality, unfortunately.

4. Ao Po Pier, Phuket
While not among the primary piers in Phuket, it's likely that small-group day trips still set off and return from here. The Ao Po Pier in Phuket serves as the embarkation point for young adventurers as they board their private boats, setting out towards the elusive secret island.

5. Bamboo Island/Ko Mai Phai, Krabi
As their hired boat skipper declined to take them directly to the secret island, the travelers opted to camp overnight on a nearby, albeit smaller, island. The following day, they embarked on a swim to reach the coveted secret island. This particular location used in "The Beach" is Bamboo Island, situated remarkably close to the actual beach featured in the film. However, it's still not close enough for a mere
swim!

6. Haew Su Wat Waterfall in Khao Yai National Park
This is the spot where DiCaprio's character, Richard, along with his companions Étienne and Françoise, take the daring plunge from the waterfall. However, it's worth noting that this waterfall, known as Haew Su Wat Falls, is quite a distance from the infamous Maya Bay where the iconic beach scenes were shot (surprise, surprise). You'll find Haew Su Wat Falls nestled within the Khao Yai National Park, located at the terminus of Thanarat Road in the heart of the park.
If you ever happen to visit, I strongly advise against attempting any jumps from the waterfall. The pool at the base is simply not deep enough to ensure safety.

7. Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh
Alright, let's get to the beach! I'm heading there now, folks. But you probably saw this one coming, didn't you? It's easily one of the most sought-after filming locations globally, and not to mention, one of Thailand's most renowned and notorious beaches.
The iconic beach featured in "The Beach" is nestled in a picturesque lagoon on Koh Phi Phi Leh, aptly named Maya Bay. In the film, the entrance to this lagoon was digitally altered in post-production to give the illusion of complete seclusion. It appeared as though the only access was through the jungle behind the beach.
During the filming of "The Beach," there was some controversy surrounding attempts to level out the terrain with the help of a tractor (can you believe it?). However, in a twist of nature's own, the 2004 tsunami swept in and restored the beach's natural landscape.
More recently, this famous beach has been indefinitely closed due to substantial damage caused by an influx of tourists.